Dell Vostro A180 User Manual

Dell™ Vostro™ A100/A180

Setup and

Quick Reference Guide

This guide provides a features overview, specifications, and quick setup,

software, and troubleshooting information for your computer. For more

information about your operating system, devices, and technologies, see

Dell Technology Guide

the

at support.dell.com.

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.

Macrovision Product Notice

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual
property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by
Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation.
Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

__________________

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2008 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of these materials in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Vost ro, and MediaDirect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned

by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and is used by Dell under license; Intel, Pentium, Core, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S.
and other countries; Blu-ray Disc is a trademark of the Blu-ray Disc Association; Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and the Windows Vista start
button logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell
Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Model DCMTLF

July 2008 P/N U792G Rev. A00

Contents

Contents

About Your Computer. . . . . . . . 7

Front View

Back View

Back Panel Connectors

Vostro A100. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Vostro A180. . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

. . . . . . . 9

Setting Up Your Computer . . . . 11

Quick Setup

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Installing Your Computer in an
Enclosure

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Connecting to the Internet

. . . . . 15

Setting Up Your Internet
Connection

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Transferring Information to a
New Computer

Microsoft® Windows Vista®
Operating System

. . . . . . . . . . . . 17

. . . . . . . . . . 17

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Troubleshooting

To ol s

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Power Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Beep Codes. . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

. . . . . . . . . . 31

3

Contents

Error Messages. . . . . . . . . . . 34

System Messages . . . . . . . . . 40

Troubleshooting Software and
Hardware Problems

. . . . . . . . 42

Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . 42

Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . 45

Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . 45

Memory Problems

. . . . . . . . . 46

Lockups and Software
Problems

Dell Technical Update Service

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

. . . 49

Reinstalling Software . . . . . . . 51

Drivers

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . 51

4

Reinstalling Drivers and

Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Restoring Your Operating
System

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Using Microsoft® Windows®
System Restore

. . . . . . . . . . . 54

Using Dell™ Factory Image

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Restore

Using the Operating System

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Media

Finding Information . . . . . . . . 59

Getting Help

Obtaining Assistance

Technical Support and Customer
Service

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

. . . . . . . 63

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Online Services. . . . . . . . . . . 64

AutoTech Service . . . . . . . . . 65

Automated Order-Status
Service

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Problems With Your Order . . . . . 66

Contents

Product Information

. . . . . . . . . 66

Returning Items for Warranty
Repair or Credit

Before You Call

Contacting Dell

Index

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

. . . . . . . . . . . 66

. . . . . . . . . . . . 67

. . . . . . . . . . . . 69

5

Contents

6

About Your Computer

Front View

About Your Computer

1

2

3

4
5

6

7

8

1 optical drive 2 optical-drive eject

3 optional optical drive

bay

5 microphone

connector

7 power button, power

light

button

4 USB 2.0 connectors (2)

6 headphone connector

8 drive-activity light

7

About Your Computer

Back View

1

2

3

1 power connector 2 voltage selector switch

(optional)

3 power supply light 4 back-panel connectors

5 expansion card slots 6 padlock ring

NOTE: The serial and parallel connectors are
available only in Vostro™ A180.

4

6

5

8

Back Panel Connectors

Vostro A100

About Your Computer

10

9

8

7

6

1

2

3

4

5

1 mouse connector 2 link-integrity light

3 network adapter

connector

5 line-in connector 6 front line-out connector

7 microphone

connector

9 VGA video connector 10 keyboard connector

4 network-activity light

8 USB 2.0 connectors (4)

9

About Your Computer

Vostro A180

12

11

10

9

8

7

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 mouse connector 2 parallel connector

3 network activity light 4 network adapter

5 link-integrity light 6 line-in connector

7 front line-out

connector

9 USB 2.0 connectors (4) 10 VGA video connector

11 serial connector 12 keyboard connector

connector

8 microphone connector

10

Setting Up Your Computer

Quick Setup

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the

procedures in this section, follow the safety
instructions that shipped with your
computer.

NOTE: Some devices may not be included if

you did not order them.

1 Connect the monitor using only one of the

following cables: the dual monitor Y-adapter
cable, the white DVI cable, or the blue VGA
cable.

Setting Up Your Computer

11

Setting Up Your Computer

2 Connect a USB device, such as a keyboard

or mouse.

3 Connect the network cable.

12

4 Connect the modem.

5 Connect the power cable(s).

6 Press the power buttons on the monitor and

the computer.

7 Connect to your network.

4

3

2

1

Setting Up Your Computer

5

6

1 Internet service 2 cable or DSL modem

3 wireless router 4 desktop computer

5 desktop computer

with USB wireless
adapter

with network adapter

6 USB wireless adapter

13

Setting Up Your Computer

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

Installing your computer in an enclosure can
restrict the airflow and impact your computer’s
performance, possibly causing it to overheat.
Follow the guidelines below when installing your
computer in an enclosure.

CAUTION: Before installing your computer

in an enclosure, read the safety instructions
that shipped with your computer.

NOTICE: The operating temperature

specifications indicated in this document
reflects the maximum ambient operating
temperature. The room ambient temperature
needs to be a consideration when you install
your computer in an enclosure. For example,
if the ambient room temperature is at 25°C
(77°F), depending on your computer’s
specifications, you only have 5° to 10°C (9° to
18°F) temperature margin before you reach

14

your computer’s maximum operating
temperature. For details about your
computer’s specifications, see
"Specifications" on page 19.

• Leave a 10.2-cm (4-inch) minimum clearance
on all sides of the computer that have air
vents to permit the airflow required for
proper ventilation.

• If your enclosure has doors, the doors need
to be of a type that allows at least a
30-percent airflow through the enclosure at
the front and at the back.

NOTICE: Do not install your computer in an

enclosure that does not allow airflow.
Restricting the airflow impacts your
computer’s performance, possibly causing it
to overheat.

• If your computer is installed in a corner on a
desk or under a desk, leave at least 5.1-cm
(2-inch) clearance from the back of the
computer to the wall to permit the airflow
required for proper ventilation.

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by

country.

To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or
network connection and an Internet service
provider (ISP). If you are using a dial-up connection,
connect a telephone line to the modem connector
on your computer and to the telephone wall
connector before you set up your Internet

15

Setting Up Your Computer

connection. If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite
modem connection, contact your ISP or cellular

phone service for setup instructions.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an Internet connection with a desktop
shortcut provided by your ISP:

1 Save and close any open files, and exit any

open programs.

2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft

Windows

3 Follow the instructions on the screen to

complete the setup.

If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if
you want to set up an Internet connection with a
different ISP, perform the steps in the appropriate
section below.

®

desktop.

NOTE: If you cannot connect to the Internet,

see the Dell Technology Guide available on
your hard drive or on the Dell Support
website at support.dell.com. If you have

16

®

successfully connected in the past, the ISP
might have a service outage. Contact your
ISP to check the service status, or try
connecting again later.

NOTE: Have your ISP information ready. If

you do not have an ISP, consult the Connect
to the Internet wizard.

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating
System

1 Save and close any open files, and exit any

open programs.

2 Click the Windows Vista Start button →

Control Panel.

3 Under Network and Internet, click Connect

to the Internet.

Setting Up Your Computer

4 In the Connect to the Internet window, click

either Broadband (PPPoE) or Dial-up,
depending on how you want to connect:

• Choose Broadband if you will use a

DSL, satellite modem, cable TV modem,
or Bluetooth
connection.

• Chose Dial-up if you will use a dial-up

modem or ISDN.

®

wireless technology

NOTE: If you do not know which type of

connection to select, click Help me choose
or contact your ISP.

5 Follow the instructions on the screen and

use the setup information provided by your
ISP to complete the setup.

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating System

1 Click the Windows Vista Start button ,

and then click Transfer files and settings→
Start Windows Easy Transfer.

2 In the User Account Control dialog box, click

Continue.

3 Click Start a new transfer or Continue a

transfer in progress.

4 Follow the instructions provided on the

screen by the Windows Easy Transfer
wizard.

17

Setting Up Your Computer

18

Specifications

Specifications

NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your

computer, click Start→ Help and Support and select the option to view information about your
computer.

Processor

Processor type Intel

Level 2 (L2) cache 512 KB for Intel Atom, Intel Celeron Dual-Core, and Intel Celeron processors

System Information

Chipset Intel 945GC and ICH7 Intel G31 and ICH7

DMA channels seven seven

®

Atom™ processor

Intel Pentium

Intel Celeron

Intel Celeron processor

1 MB for Intel Pentium Dual-Core processor

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

®

Dual-Core processor

®

Dual-Core processor

19

Specifications

System Information (Continued)

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

Interrupt levels 24 24

BIOS chip (NVRAM) 4 Mb 8 Mb

NIC integrated network interface capable

of 10/100 communication

integrated network interface capable
of 10/100 communication

Memory

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

Type 533 MHz 667/800 MHz

Memory connectors one two

Memory capacities 512 MB, 1 GB or 2 GB 512 MB, 1 GB or 2 GB

Minimum memory 512 MB 512 MB

Maximum memory 2 GB 4 GB

20

Specifications

Video

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

Type:

Integrated Intel integrated video GMA 950

up to 256-MB video memory (shared)

Intel Graphics Media Accelerator
3100

at total system memory of greater
than 512 MB

Discrete N/A optional PCI Express x16 graphics

card (up to 25 W)

Audio

Type Intel High Definition Audio

21

Specifications

Expansion Bus

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

Bus type PCI 2.3

SATA 1.0 and 2.0
USB 2.0

PCI 2.3
PCI Express 1.0A
SATA 1.0 and 2.0
USB 2.0

Bus speed 133 MB/s (PCI)

1.5 Gbps and 3.0 Gbps (SATA)

480-Mbps high speed, 12-Mbps full
speed, 1.2-Mbps low speed (USB)

133 MB/s (PCI)

x1-slot bidirectional speed — 500 MB/
s (PCI Express)

x16-slot bidirectional speed — 8 GB/s
(PCI Express)

1.5 Gbps and 3.0 Gbps (SATA)

480-Mbps high speed, 12-Mbps full
speed, 1.2-Mbps low speed (USB)

PCI one two

connector size

connector data width

124 pins 124 pins

32 bits 32 bits

(maximum)

22

Specifications

Expansion Bus (Continued)

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

PCI Express x1 N/A one

connector size

connector data width

N/A 36 pins

N/A 1 PCI Express lane

(maximum)

PCI Express x16 N/A one

connector size

connector data width

N/A 164 pins

N/A 16 PCI Express lanes

(maximum)

Drives

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

Externally accessible: two 3.5-inch drive bays two 3.5-inch drive bays

Internally accessible four 3.5-inch SATA drive bays four 3.5-inch SATA drive bays

23

Specifications

Drives (Continued)

Available devices

Connectors

External connectors:

Video

Network adapter

Serial

Parallel

USB

Audio

24

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

•

up to two 3.5-inch SATA hard drives

•

two 5.25-inch optical disc drive bays

•

up to four 3.5-inch SATA hard drives

•

two 5.25-inch optical disc drive
bays

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

15-hole connector 15-hole connector

RJ45 connector RJ45 connector

N/A 9-pin connector

N/A 25-pin connector

two front-panel, and four back-panel
USB 2.0-compliant connectors

two front-panel, and f our back-panel
USB 2.0-compliant connectors

three connectors for 2.0 support three connectors for 5.1 support

Connectors (Continued)

System board connectors:

Serial ATA

Floppy drive

Processor fan

Chassis fan

PCI 2.3

PCI Express x1

PCI Express x16

Front panel control

Front panel USB

Front panel audio HDA
header

Processor

Memory

Specifications

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

two 7-pin connectors four 7-pin connectors

N/A one 34-pin connector

N/A one 4-pin connector

one 4-pin connector one 4-pin connector

one 124-pin connector two 124-pin connectors

N/A one 36-pin connector

N/A one 164-pin connector

one 10-pin connector one 10-pin connector

one 10-pin connector one 10-pin connector

one 10-pin connector one 10-pin connector

solder down for Intel Atom processor one 775-pin connector

one 240-pin connector two 240-pin connectors

25

Specifications

Connectors (Continued)

Power 12V

Power

Controls and Lights

Front of computer:

Power button

Power light

Drive activity light

26

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

one 4-pin connector one 4-pin connector

one 24-pin connector one 24-pin connector

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

push button push button

blue light — Power on state

blinking blue light— Standby state

off (no light) — Power off state

blue light — A blinking blue light
indicates the compu ter is reading data
from or writing data to the SATA hard
drive or CD/DVD.

blue light— Power on state

off (no light) — Power off and
standby states

blue light — A blinking blue light
indicates the computer is reading
data from or writing data to the SATA
hard drive or CD/DVD.

Controls and Lights (Continued)

Rear of computer:

Link integrity light (on the
integrated network adapter)

Network activity light (on
integrated network adapter)

Power supply LED

Vostro A100 Vostro A180

green light — A good connection
exists between the network and the
computer.

off (no light) — The computer is not
detecting a physical connection to the
network.

green light — A good connection
exists between the network and the
computer.

off (no light) — The computer is not
detecting a physical connection to
the network.

yellow blinking light. yellow blinking light.

green light — Power on state

off (no light) — Indicates power
supply, motherboard, or peripheral
device failure

green light — Power on state

off (no light) — Indicates power
supply, motherboard, or peripheral
device failure

Specifications

27

Specifications

Power

DC power supply:

Wattage

Maximum heat dissipation (MHD)

180 W

614 BTU/hr

Heat dissipation is calculated by using the power supply wattage
rating.

Voltage (see the safety information
that shipped with your computer for
important voltage setting

200-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 3.5 A

115/230 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 7 A/3.5 A

information)

Coin-cell battery 3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell

NOTE: Vostro A180 can support discrete graphic cards up to 25W or additional peripherals up to 25W. If
greater power capabilities are required, the power supply unit must be upgraded.

Physical

Height 35.9 cm (14.1 inches)

Width 18.0 cm (7.1 inches)

28

Physical (Continued)

Depth 45.0 cm (17.7 inches)

Weight 12.7 kg (28.0 lb)

Environmental

Temperature:

Operating

Storage

10° to 35°C (50° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

Relative humidity 20% to 80% (noncondensing)

Maximum vibration:

Storage

5~500 Hz, 2.2 Grms, 15 mins per side

Maximum shock:

Operating

Storage

40 G +/- 5%, 2 ms +/- 10%, half sine wave

105 G +/-5%, 2 ms +/- 10%, half sine wave

Specifications

29

Specifications

Environmental (Continued)

Altitude:

Operating

Storage

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

Airborne contaminant level G2 or lower as defined by ISA-S71.04-1985

30

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting

CAUTION: To guard against the likelihood of

electric shock, laceration by moving fan
blades, or other expected injuries, always
unplug your computer from the electrical
outlet before opening the cover.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the

procedures in this section, follow the safety
instructions that shipped with your
computer.

Tools

Power Lights

The power-button light located on the front of the
computer turns on and blinks or remains solid to
indicate different states:

• If the power light is off, the computer is
either turned off or is not receiving power.

• If the power light is steady blue and the
computer is not responding, ensure that the
display is connected and powered on.

• If the power light is blinking blue (Vostro™
A100 only), the computer is in standby mode.

Press a key on the keyboard, move the
mouse, or press the power button to resume
normal operation.

Beep Codes

Your computer might emit a series of beeps during
start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or
problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code,
identifies a problem. One possible beep code
consists of repetitive three short beeps. This beep
code tells you that the computer encountered a
possible system board failure.

31

Troubleshooting

If your computer beeps during start-up:

1 Write down the beep code.
2 Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more

serious cause (see "Dell Diagnostics" on
page 42).

Code

Description Suggested Remedy
(repetitive
short beeps)

1 BIOS checksum failure.

Contact Dell.

Possible system board failure

2 No memory modules are

detected

If you have two or more memory modules installed, remove the
modules, reinstall one module (see your Service Manual at
support.dell.com), and then restart the computer. If the
computer starts normally, reinstall an additional module.
Continue until you have identified a faulty module or
reinstalled all modules without error.

If available, install good memory of the same type into your
computer see your Service Manual at support.dell.com).

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

3 Possible system board failure Contact Dell.

32

Troubleshooting

Code

Description Suggested Remedy
(repetitive
short beeps)

4 RAM Read/Write failure Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector

placement requirements exist (see your Service Manual at
support.dell.com).

Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are
compatible with your computer (see your Service Manual at
support.dell.com).

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

5 Real-time clock failure;

Possible battery failure or

system board failure

Replace the battery (see your Service Manual at
support.dell.com).

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

6 Video BIOS Test Failure Contact Dell.

7 CPU-cache test failure Contact Dell.

33

Troubleshooting

Error Messages

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the

procedures in this section, follow the safety
instructions that shipped with your
computer.

If the message is not listed, see the documentation
for the operating system or the program that was
running when the message appeared.

AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE — The touch

pad or external mouse may be faulty. For an
external mouse, check the cable connection.
Enable the Pointing Device option in the system
setup program. See your Service Manual at
support.dell.com for more information. If the
problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell"
on page 69).

BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME — Ensure

that you have spelled the command correctly, put
spaces in the proper place, and used the correct
pathname.

34

CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE — The

primary cache internal to the microprocessor has
failed. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on
page 69).

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD

drive does not respond to commands from the
computer.

DATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot read the

data.

DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY — One

or more memory modules may be faulty or
improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION — The

hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics"
on page 42).

Troubleshooting

DRIVE NOT READY — The operation requires a

hard drive in the bay before it can continue. Install a
hard drive in the hard drive bay. See your Service
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD — The

computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert
the card or try another card. See your Service
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

EXTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS

CHANGED — The amount of memory recorded in

non-volatile memory (NVRAM) does not match the
memory installed in the computer. Restart the
computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell
(see "Contacting Dell" on page 69).

THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR

THE DESTINATION DRIVE — The file that you

are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk, or
the disk is full. Try copying the file to a different disk
or use a larger capacity disk.

A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF

THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ <

> | —

Do not use these characters in filenames.

GATE A20 FAILURE — A memory module may

be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if
necessary, replace them. See your Service Manual
at support.dell.com for more information.

GENERAL FAILURE — The operating system is

unable to carry out the command. The message is
usually followed by specific information—for
example, Printer out of paper. Take th e
appropriate action.

HARD-DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION

ERROR — The computer cannot identify the drive

type. Shut down the computer, remove the hard
drive (see your Service Manual at
support.dell.com), and boot the computer from a
CD. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the
hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard
Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 42).

35

Troubleshooting

HARD-DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE

The hard drive does not respond to

0—

commands from the computer. Shut down the
computer, remove the hard drive (see your Service
Manual at support.dell.com), and boot the computer
from a CD. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall
the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the
problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard
Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 42).

HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE — The hard

drive does not respond to commands from the
computer. Shut down the computer, remove the
hard drive (see your Service Manual at
support.dell.com), and boot the computer from a
CD. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the
hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem
persists, try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics"
on page 42).

HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — The

hard drive may be defective. Shut down the
computer, remove the hard drive (see your Service

36

Manual at support.dell.com), and boot the computer
from a CD. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall
the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the
problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard
Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 42).

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating

system is trying to boot to nonbootable media, such
as a floppy disk or CD. Insert bootable media.

INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-

PLEASE RUN SYST EM SETUP PROGRAM —

The system configuration information does not
match the hardware configuration. The message is
most likely to occur after a memory module is
installed. Correct the appropriate options in the
system setup program. See your Service Manual at
support.dell.com for more information.

KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE — For

external keyboards, check the cable connection.
Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell
Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).

Troubleshooting

KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE — For

external keyboards, check the cable connection.
Restart the computer, and avoid touching the
keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. Run
the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics
(see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).

KEYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE — For

external keyboards, check the cable connection.
Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell
Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).

KEYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE — For

external keyboards or keypads, check the cable
connection. Restart the computer, and avoid
touching the keyboard or keys during the boot
routine. Run the Stuck Key test in the Dell
Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).

LICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN

EDIADIRECT — Dell™ MediaDirect™ cannot

M

verify the Digital Rights Management (DRM)
restrictions on the file, so the file cannot be played
(see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).

MEMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT

ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING
VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or

improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

MEMORY ALLOCATION ERROR — The

software you are attempting to run is conflicting
with the operating system, another program, or a
utility. Shut down the computer, wait 30 seconds,
and then restart it. Try to run the program again. If
the error message still appears, see the software
documentation.

MEMORY DATA LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS,

READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A

memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,
replace them. See your Service Manual at
support.dell.com for more information.

37

Troubleshooting

MEMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC FAILURE AT

ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING
VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or

improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

MEMORY ODD/ EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT

ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING
VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or

improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

MEMORY WRITE/ READ FAILURE AT

ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING
VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or

improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

38

NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — The

computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard
drive is your boot device, ensure that the drive is
installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot
device.

NO BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE — The

operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell

see

"Contacting Dell" on page 69).

(

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the

system board may be malfunctioning. Run the
System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 42).

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES.
E

XIT SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY

AGAIN — You have too many programs open.

Close all windows and open the program that you
want to use.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND —

Reinstall the hard drive (see your Service Manual at
support.dell.com). If the problem persists, contact
Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69).

Troubleshooting

OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM — The

optional ROM has failed. Contact Dell (see
"Contacting Dell" on page 69).

A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT

FOUND — The program that you are trying to

open is missing an essential file. Remove and then
reinstall the program.

®

Microsoft

Windows Vista®:

1 Click the Windows Vista start button →

Control Panel→ Programs→ Programs and
Features.

2 Select the program you want to remove.
3 Click Uninstall.
4 See the program documentation for

installation instructions.

SECTOR NOT FOUND — The operating system

cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may
have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the
hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility
to check the file structure on the hard drive. See
Windows Help and Support for instructions (click

Start→ Help and Support). If a large number of
sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible),
and then reformat the hard drive.

SEEK ERROR — The operating system cannot

find a specific track on the hard drive.

SHUTDOWN FAILURE — A chip on the system

board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics"
on page 42).

TIME- OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER —

System configuration settings are corrupted.
Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to
charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to
restore the data by entering the system setup
program, then immediately exit the program (see
your Service Manual at support.dell.com). If the
message reappears, contact Dell (see "Contacting
Dell" on page 69).

TIME- OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED — The

reserve battery that supports the system
configuration settings may require recharging.

39

Troubleshooting

Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to
charge the battery. If the problem persists, contact
Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69).

TIME- OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE

YST EM SETUP PROGRAM — The time or

S

date stored in the system setup program does not
match the system clock. Correct the settings for the
Date and Time options. See your Service Manual at
support.dell.com for more information.

TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED — A chip

on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the
System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 42).

UNEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED

MODE — The keyboard controller may be

malfunctioning, or a memory module may be loose.
Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard
Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 42).

X :\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS
NOT READY — Insert a disk into the drive and

try again.

40

WARNING: BATTERY IS CRITICALLY

LOW — The battery is running out of charge.

Replace the battery, or connect the computer to an
electrical outlet; otherwise, activate hibernate
mode or shut down the computer.

System Messages

NOTE: If the message you received is not

listed in the table, see the documentation for
either the operating system or the program
that was running when the message
appeared.

ALERT! PREVIOUS ATTEMPTS AT BOOTING

THIS SYSTEM HAVE FAILED AT CHECKPOINT

NNNN]. FOR HELP IN RESOLVING THIS

[

PROBLEM, PLEASE NOTE THIS CHECKPOINT
AND CONTACT DELL TECHNICAL

UPPORT — The computer failed to complete

S

the start routine three consecutive times for the
same error (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69 for
assistance).

Troubleshooting

CMOS CHECKSUM ERROR — Possible

system board failure or RTC battery low. Replace
the battery. See your Service Manual at
support.dell.com or see "Contacting Dell" on
page 69 for assistance.

CPU FAN FAILURE — Processor fan failure.

Replace processor fan. See your Service Manual at
support.dell.com.

HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE — Possible hard

drive failure during hard drive POST. Check cables,
swap hard disks, or see "Contacting Dell" on page 69
for assistance.

HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE —

Possible hard drive failure during hard-drive start
test (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69 for
assistance).

KEYBOARD FAILURE — Keyboard failure or

keyboard cable loose.

NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — No

bootable partition on hard drive, or the hard drive
cable is loose, or no bootable device exists.

• If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure
that the cables are connected and that the
drive is installed properly and partitioned as
a boot device.

• Enter system setup and ensure that the boot
sequence information is correct (see your
Service Manual at support.dell.com).

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the

system board might be malfunctioning or system
board failure (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69 for
assistance).

USB OVER CURRENT ERROR — Disconnect

the USB device. Use external power source for the
USB device.

41

Troubleshooting

NOTICE - HARD DRIVE SELF
MONITORING SYSTEM

THAT A PARAMETER HAS EXCEEDED ITS
NORMAL OPERATING RANGE. DELL
RECOMMENDS THAT YOU BACK UP YOUR
DATA REGULARLY. A PARAMETER OUT OF
RANGE MAY OR MAY NOT INDICATE A
POTENTIAL HARD DRIVE PROBLEM —

S.M.A.R.T error, possible hard drive failure. This
feature can be enabled or disabled in BIOS setup.

HAS REPORTED

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems

If a device is either not detected during the
operating system setup or is detected but
incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware
Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.

42

To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:

Windows Vista:

1 Click the Windows Vista Start button ,

and click Help and Support.

2 Type hardware troubleshooter in

the search field and press <Enter> to start
the search.

3 In the search results, select the option that

best describes the problem and follow the
remaining troubleshooting steps.

Dell Diagnostics

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the

procedures in this section, follow the safety
instructions that shipped with your
computer.

Troubleshooting

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer,
perform the checks in Lockups and Software
Problems (see "Lockups and Software Problems" on
page 47) and run the Dell Diagnostics before you
contact Dell for technical assistance.

It is recommended that you print these procedures
before you begin.

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on

Dell computers.

NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities media is

optional and may not ship with your
computer.

See your Service Manual at support.dell.com to
review your computer’s configuration information,
and ensure that the device that you want to test
displays in the system setup program and is active.

Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or
from the Dell Drivers and Utilities media.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your
Hard Drive

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a

screen image, see
page 69.

1 Ensure that the computer is connected to an

electrical outlet that is known to be working
properly.

2 Turn on (or restart) your computer.
3 When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12>

immediately. Select Diagnostics from the
start menu and press <Enter>.

"Contacting Dell

" on

NOTE: If you wait too long and the

operating system logo appears,
continue to wait until you see the
Microsoft
then shut down your computer and try
again.

®

Windows® desktop, and

43

Troubleshooting

NOTE: If you see a message stating

that no diagnostics utility partition has
been found, run the Dell Diagnostics
from the Drivers and Utilities media.

4 Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics

from the diagnostics utility partition on your
hard drive, and follow the instructions on the
screen.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Dell

Drivers and Utilities

1 Insert the Drivers and Utilities media.
2 Shut down and restart the computer.
3 When the DELL logo appears, press <F12>

immediately.

Media

NOTE: If you wait too long and the

operating system logo appears,
continue to wait until you see the
Microsoft
shut down your computer and try
again.

44

®

Windows® desktop; then,

NOTE: The next steps change the boot

sequence for one time only. On the
next start-up, the computer starts
according to the devices specified in
the system setup program.

4 When the boot device list appears, highlight

CD/DVD/CD-RW and press <Enter>.

5 Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from

the menu that appears and press <Enter>.

6 Type

1 to start the CD menu and press

<Enter> to proceed.

7 Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from

the numbered list. If multiple versions are
listed, select the version that is appropriate
for your computer.

8 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

appears, select the test that you want to run,
and follow the instructions on the screen.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Tips

Follow these tips when troubleshooting your
computer:

• If you added or removed a part before the
problem started, review the installation
procedures and ensure that the part is
correctly installed (see your Service Manual
at support.dell.com).

• If a device does not work, ensure that the
device is properly connected.

• If an error message appears on the screen,
write down the exact message. This
message may help support personnel to
diagnose and fix the problem(s).

• If an error message occurs in a program, see
the program documentation.

NOTE: The procedures in this document

were written for the Windows default view,
so they may not apply if you set your Dell
computer to the Windows Classic view.

Power Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the

procedures in this section, follow the safety
information that shipped with your
computer.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF — The

computer is either turned off or is not receiving
power.

• Reseat the power cable in the power
connector on the back of the computer and
the electrical outlet.

• Bypass power strips, power extension
cables, and other power protection devices
to verify that the computer turns on properly.

• Ensure that any power strips being used are
plugged into an electrical outlet and are
turned on.

• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by
testing it with another device, such as a
lamp.

45

Troubleshooting

• Ensure that the main power cable and front
panel cable are securely connected to the
system board (see your Service Manual at
support.dell.com).

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLUE AND THE

COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING —

• Ensure that the display is connected and
powered on.

• If the display is connected and powered on,
see "Beep Codes" on page 31.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING BLUE

OSTRO A100 ONLY)—The computer is in

(V

standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard, move
the mouse, or press the power button to resume
normal operation.

ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE — Some possible

causes of interference are:

• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension
cables

• Too many devices connected to the same
power strip

46

• Multiple power strips connected to the same
electrical outlet

Memory Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the

procedures in this section, follow the safety
information that shipped with your computer.

IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY

MESSAGE —

• Save and close any open files and exit any
open programs you are not using to see if
that resolves the problem.

• See the software documentation for
minimum memory requirements. If
necessary, install additional memory (see
your Service Manual at support.dell.com).

• Reseat the memory modules (see your
Service Manual at support.dell.com) to
ensure that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory.

Troubleshooting

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 42).

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY

PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules (see your

Service Manual at support.dell.com) to
ensure that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory
installation guidelines (see your Service
Manual at support.dell.com).

• Ensure that the memory you are using is
supported by your computer. For more
information about the type of memory
supported by your computer, see "Memory"
on page 20.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 42).

Lockups and Software Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the

procedures in this section, follow the safety
information that shipped with your
computer.

The computer does not start up

ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS

FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER
AND TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET.

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You may lose data if you are unable

to perform an operating system shutdown.

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are

unable to get a response by pressing a key on your
keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the
power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the
computer turns off), and then restart your computer.

47

Troubleshooting

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

1 Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to

access the Task Manager, and click the
Applications tab.

2 Click to select the program that is no longer

responding, and click End Task.

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Most software includes installation

instructions in its documentation or on a
floppy disk, CD, or DVD.

CHECK THE SOFTWARE

DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall

and then reinstall the program.

48

A program is designed for an earlier
Microsoft

®

Windows® operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY

IZARD —

W

Windows Vista:

The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a
program so that it runs in an environment similar to
non-Windows Vista operating system environments.

1 Click Start → Control Panel→

Programs→ Use an older program with this
version of Windows.

2 In the welcome screen, click Next.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen.

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are

unable to get a response by pressing a key on your
keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the
power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the
computer turns off), and then restart your computer.

Troubleshooting

Other software problems

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION

OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE
MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING
INFORMATION —

• Ensure that the program is compatible with
the operating system installed on your
computer.

• Ensure that your computer meets the
minimum hardware requirements needed to
run the software. See the software
documentation for information.

• Ensure that the program is installed and
configured properly.

• Verify that the device drivers do not conflict
with the program.

• If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the
program.

BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY

• Use a virus-scanning program to check the
hard drive, floppy disks, CDs, or DVDs.

• Save and close any open files or programs
and shut down your computer through the
Start menu.

Dell Technical Update Service

The Dell Technical Update service provides
proactive e-mail notification of software and
hardware updates for your computer. The service is
free and can be customized for content, format, and
how frequently you receive notifications.

To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to
support.dell.com/technicalupdate.

49

Troubleshooting

50

Reinstalling Software

Reinstalling Software

Drivers

Identifying Drivers

If you experience a problem with any device,
identify whether the driver is the source of your
problem and, if necessary, update the driver.

Microsoft

Scroll down the list to see if any device has an
exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the
device icon.

®

Windows Vista®:

1 Click the Windows Vista Start button™ ,

and right-click Computer.

2 Click Properties→ Device Manager.

NOTE: The User Account Control

window may appear. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click
Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to continue.

If an exclamation point is next to the device name,
you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new
driver (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on
page 51).

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at

support.dell.com and your Drivers and
Utilities media provide approved drivers for

Dell™ computers. If you install drivers
obtained from other sources, your computer
might not work correctly.

Returning to a Previous Device Driver
Version

Windows Vista:

1 Click the Windows Vista Start button ,

and right-click Computer.

51

Reinstalling Software

2 Click Properties→ Device Manager.

NOTE: The User Account Control

window may appear. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click
Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to enter the Device
Manager.

3 Right-click the device for which the new

driver was installed and click Properties.

4 Click the Drivers tab→ Roll Back Driver.

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the
problem, then use System Restore (see "Restoring
Your Operating System" on page 54) to return your
computer to the operating state that existed before
you installed the new driver.

Using the Drivers and Utilities Media

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore
(see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 54)
does not resolve the problem, reinstall the driver
from your Drivers and Utilities media.

52

1 With the Windows desktop displayed, insert

your Drivers and Utilities media.

2 If this is your first time to use the Drivers and

Utilities media, go to step 3. If not, go to

step 6.

3 When the Drivers and Utilities media

installation program starts, follow the
prompts on the screen.

NOTE: In most cases, the Drivers and

Utilities program starts running

automatically. If it does not, start
Windows Explorer, click your media
drive directory to display the media
contents, and then double-click the
autorcd.exe file.

4 When the InstallShield Wizard Complete

window appears, remove the Drivers and
Utilities media and click Finish to restart the
computer.

5 When you see the Windows desktop,

reinsert the Drivers and Utilities media.

Reinstalling Software

6 At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen,

click Next.

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities

program displays drivers only for
hardware that came installed in your
computer. If you installed additional
hardware, the drivers for the new
hardware might not be displayed. If
those drivers are not displayed, exit
the Drivers and Utilities program. For
drivers information, see the
documentation that came with the
device.

A message appears, stating that the Drivers
and Utilities media is detecting hardware in
your computer.

The drivers that are used by your computer
are automatically displayed in the My
Drivers—The ResourceCD has identified
these components in your system window.

7 Click the driver that you want to reinstall and

follow the instructions on the screen.

If a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is
not required by your operating system.

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as
described in the previous section:

1 Click the Windows Vista Start button ,

and right-click Computer.

2 Click Properties→ Device Manager.

NOTE: The User Account Control

window may appear. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click
Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to enter the Device
Manager.

3 Do uble-click the type of device for which you

are installing the driver (for example, Audio
or Video).

4 Double-click the name of the device for

which you are installing the driver.

53

Reinstalling Software

5 Click the Driver tab→ Update Driver→

Browse my computer for driver software.

6 Click Browse and browse to the location to

which you previously copied the driver files.

7 When the name of the appropriate driver

appears, click the name of the driver→ OK→
Next.

8 Click Finish and restart your computer.

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the
following ways:

• Microsoft Windows System Restore returns
your computer to an earlier operating state
without affecting data files. Use System
Restore as the first solution for restoring
your operating system and preserving data
files.

• Dell Factory Image Restore (available in
Windows Vista) returns your hard drive to
the operating state it was in when you
purchased the computer. The program

54

permanently deletes all data on the hard
drive and removes any programs installed
after you received the computer. Use Dell
Factory Image Restore only if System
Restore did not resolve your operating
system problem.

• If you received the Operating System media
with your computer, you can use it to restore
your operating system. However, using the
Operating System media also deletes all data
on the hard drive. Use the media only if
System Restore did not resolve your
operating system problem.

Using Microsoft® Windows® System Restore

The Windows operating systems provide a System
Restore option that allows you to return your
computer to an earlier operating state (without
affecting data files) if changes to the hardware,
software, or other system settings have left the

Reinstalling Software

computer in an undesirable operating state. Any
changes that System Restore makes to your
computer are completely reversible.

NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data

files. System Restore does not monitor your
data files or recover them.

NOTE: The procedures in this document

were written for the Windows default view,
so they may not apply if you set your Dell™
computer to the Windows Classic view.

NOTE: Set your Dell™ computer to the

Windows Classic view.

Starting System Restore

Windows Vista:

1 Click Start .
2 In the Start Search box, type System

Restore and press <Enter>.

NOTE: The User Account Control

window may appear. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click

Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to continue the desired
action.

3 Click Next and follow the remaining prompts

on the screen.

In the event that System Restore did not resolve the
issue, you may undo the last system restore (see
"Undoing the Last System Restore" on page 55).

Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system

restore, save and close all open files and exit
any open programs. Do not alter, open, or
delete any files or programs until the system
restoration is complete.

Windows Vista:

1 Click Start
2 In the Start Search box, type System

Restore and press <Enter>.

3 Click Undo my last restoration and click

Next.

.

55

Reinstalling Software

Using Dell™ Factory Image Restore

NOTICE: Using Dell Factory Image Restore

permanently deletes all data on the hard
drive and removes any programs or drivers
installed after you received your computer. If
possible, back up the data before using
these options. Use Dell Factory Image
Restore only if System Restore did not
resolve your operating system problem.

NOTE: Dell Factory Image Restore may not

be available in certain countries or on
certain computers.

Use Dell Factory Image Restore (Windows Vista)
only as the last method to restore your operating
system. These options restore your hard drive to the
operating state it was in when you purchased the
computer. Any programs or files added since you
received your computer—including data files—are
permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files
include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail

56

messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If
possible, back up all data before using Factory
Image Restore.

Dell Factory Image Restore (Windows
Vista Only)

1 Turn on the computer. When the Dell logo

appears, press <F8> several times to access
the Vista Advanced Boot Options Window.

2 Select Repair Your Computer.
3 The System Recovery Options window

appears.

4 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
5 To access the recovery options, log on as a

local user. To access the command prompt,
type administrator in the User name
field, then click OK.

Reinstalling Software

6 Click Dell Factory Image Restore.

NOTE: Depending upon your

configuration, you may need to select
Dell Factory Tools, then Dell Factory
Image Restore.

7 On the Dell Factory Image Restore welcome

screen, click Next.

The Confirm Data Deletion screen appears.

NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with

Factory Image Restore, click Cancel.

8 Click the checkbox to confirm that you want

to continue reformatting the hard drive and
restoring the system software to the factory
condition, then click Next.

The restore process begins and may take 5
or more minutes to complete. A message
appears when the operating system and
factory-installed applications have been
restored to factory condition.

9 Click Finish to restart the computer.

Using the Operating System Media

Before you Begin

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows
operating system to correct a problem with a newly
installed driver, first try using Windows Device
Driver Rollback. See "Returning to a Previous
Device Driver Version" on page 51. If Device Driver
Rollback does not resolve the problem, use
Microsoft Windows System Restore to return your
operating system to the operating state it was in
before you installed the new device driver. See
"Using Microsoft
page 54.

®

Windows® System Restore" on

NOTICE: Before performing the installation,

back up all data files on your primary hard
drive. For conventional hard drive
configurations, the primary hard drive is the
first drive detected by the computer.

To reinstall Windows, you need the Dell™ Operating
System media and the Dell Drivers and Utilities
media.

57

Reinstalling Software

NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities media

contains drivers that were installed during
the assembly of the computer. Use the
Drivers and Utilities media
required drivers. Depending on the region
from which you ordered your computer, or
whether you requested the media, the Dell

Drivers and Utilities media and Dell
Operating System media may not ship with

your computer.

to load any

Reinstalling Windows

The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to
complete. After you reinstall the operating system,
you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus
protection program, and other software.

1 Save and close any open files and exit any

open programs.

2 Insert the Operating System media.
3 If the Install Windows message

appears, click Exit.

58

4 Restart the computer.

When thie DELL logo appears, press <F12>
immediately.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the

operating system logo appears,
continue to wait until you see the
Microsoft
shut down your computer and try
again.

NOTE: The next steps change the boot

sequence for one time only. On the
next start-up, the computer boots
according to the devices specified in
the system setup program.

5 When the boot device list appears, highlight

CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive and press <Enter>.

6 Press any key to Boot from CD-ROM, and

follow the instructions on the screen to
complete the installation.

®

Windows® desktop; then,

Finding Information

Finding Information

NOTE: Some features or media may be

optional and may not ship with your
computer. Some features or media may not
be available in certain countries.

Document/Media/Label Contents

Service Tag/Express Service Code

The Service Tag/Express Service Code is located on your
computer.

Operating System Media

The Operating System media is a CD or DVD that may
have shipped with your computer.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with

your computer.

•

Use the Service Tag to identify your computer
when you use
support.

•

Enter the Express Service Code to direct your
call when contacting support.

NOTE: Your Service Tag/Express Service Code is
located on your computer.

Reinstall your operating system

support.dell.com

or contact

59

Finding Information

Document/Media/Label (Continued) Contents

•

Drivers and Utilities Media

The Drivers and Utilities media is a CD or DVD that may
have shipped with your computer.

A diagnostic program for your computer

•

Drivers for your computer

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can
be found at support.dell.com.

•

Desktop System Software (DSS)

•

Readme files

NOTE: Readme files may be included on your
media to provide last-minute updates about
technical changes to your computer or advanced
technical-reference material for technicians or
experienced users.

•

Safety, Regulatory, Warranty, and Support
Documentation

This type of information may have shipped with your
computer. For additional regulatory information, see the
Regulatory Compliance Homepage on www.dell.com at
the following location:
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Warranty information

•

Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

•

Safety instructions

•

Regulatory information

•

Ergonomics information

•

End User License Agreement

60

Document/Media/Label (Continued) Contents

•

Service Manual

The Service Manual for your computer can be found at
support.dell.com.

Dell Technology Guide

The Dell Technology Guide is available on your hard drive
and on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

How to remove and replace parts

•

How to configure system settings

•

How to troubleshoot and solve problems

•

About your operating system

•

Using and maintaining devices

•

Understanding technologies such as RAID,
Internet, Bluetooth
e-mail, networking, and more.

Microsoft® Windows® License Label

•

Provides your operating system product key.

Your Microsoft Windows License is located on your
computer.

Finding Information

®

wireless technology,

61

Finding Information

62

Getting Help

Getting Help

Obtaining Assistance

CAUTION: If you need to remove the

computer cover, first disconnect the
computer power and modem cables from all
electrical outlets. Follow the safety
instructions that shipped with your
computer.

If you experience a problem with your computer,
you can complete the following steps to diagnose
and troubleshoot the problem:

1 See "Troubleshooting Tips" on page 45 for

information and procedures that pertain to
the problem your computer is experiencing.

2 See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42 for

procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics.

3 Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on

page 68.

4 Use Dell's extensive suite of online services

available at Dell Support (support.dell.com)
for help with installation and troubleshooting
procedures. See "Online Services" on
page 64 for a more extensive list of Dell
Support online.

5 If the preceding steps have not resolved the

problem, see "Contacting Dell" on page 69.

NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone at

or near the affected computer so that the
support staff can assist you with any
necessary procedures.

NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system

may not be available in all countries.

When prompted by Dell's automated telephone
system, enter your Express Service Code to route
the call directly to the proper support personnel. If

63

Getting Help

you do not have an Express Service Code, open the
Dell Accessories folder, double-click the Express
Service Code icon, and follow the directions.

For instructions on using the Dell Support, see
"Technical Support and Customer Service" on
page 64.

NOTE: Some of the following services are

not always available in all locations outside
the continental U.S. Call your local Dell
representative for information on availability.

Technical Support and Customer Service

Dell's support service is available to answer your
questions about Dell™ hardware. Our support staff
uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast,
accurate answers.

To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You
Call" on page 67, and then see the contact
information for your region or go to
support.dell.com.

64

Online Services

You can learn about Dell products and services at
the following websites:

www.dell.com

www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only)

www.dell.com/jp (Japan only)

www.euro.dell.com (Europe only)

www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean
countries)

www.dell.ca (Canada only)

You can access Dell Support through the following
websites and e-mail addresses:

• Dell Support websites:

support.dell.com

support.jp.dell.com (Japan only)

support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)

Getting Help

• Dell Support e-mail addresses:

[e-mail]

[e-mail]

[e-mail] (Latin America and
Caribbean countries only)

[e-mail] (Asian/Pacific
countries only)

• Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses:

[e-mail] (Asian/Pacific
countries only)

[e-mail] (Canada only)

• Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP):

ftp.dell.com – log in as user anonymous,
and use your e-mail address as your
password

AutoTech Service

Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—
provides recorded answers to the questions most
frequently asked by Dell customers about their
laptop and desktop computers.

When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone
telephone to select the subjects that correspond to
your questions. For the telephone number to call for
your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 69.

Automated Order-Status Service

To check on the status of any Dell products that you
have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or
you can call the automated order-status service. A
recording prompts you for the information needed
to locate and report on your order. For the
telephone number to call for your region, see
"Contacting Dell" on page 69.

65

Getting Help

Problems With Your Order

If you have a problem with your order, such as
missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing,
contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your
invoice or packing slip available when you call. For
the telephone number to call for your region, see
"Contacting Dell" on page 69.

Product Information

If you need information about additional products
available from Dell, or if you would like to place an
order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For
the telephone number to call for your region or to
speak to a sales specialist, see "Contacting Dell" on
page 69.

66

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair
or credit, as follows:

1 Call Dell to obtain a Return Material

Authorization Number, and write it clearly
and prominently on the outside of the box.

2 For the telephone number to call for your

region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 69.
Include a copy of the invoice and a letter
describing the reason for the return.

3 Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist

(see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 68),
indicating the tests that you have run and
any error messages reported by the Dell
Diagnostics (see "Contacting Dell" on
page 69).

4 Include any accessories that belong with the

item(s) being returned (power cables,
software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if
the return is for credit.

Getting Help

5 Pack the equipment to be returned in the

original (or equivalent) packing materials.

You are responsible for paying shipping expenses.
You are also responsible for insuring any product
returned, and you assume the risk of loss during
shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.)
packages are not accepted.

Returns that are missing any of the preceding
requirements will be refused at Dell’s receiving
dock and returned to you.

Before You Call

NOTE: Have your Express Service Code

ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s
automated-support telephone system direct
your call more efficiently. You may also be
asked for your Service Tag (located on the
back or bottom of your computer).

Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see
"Diagnostics Checklist" on page 68). If possible, turn
on your computer before you call Dell for
assistance and call from a telephone at or near the
computer. You may be asked to type some
commands at the keyboard, relay detailed
information during operations, or try other
troubleshooting steps possible only at the computer
itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is
available.

CAUTION: Before working inside your

computer, follow the safety instructions in
the documentation
computer.

that shipped with your

67

Getting Help

Diagnostics Checklist

Name:
Date:
Address:
Phone number:
Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer):
Express Service Code:
Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):
Operating system and version:
Devices:
Expansion cards:
Are you connected to a network? Yes No
Network, version, and network adapter:
Programs and versions:
See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system’s start-up files. If the

computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before
calling Dell.

Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:
Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:

68

Contacting Dell

For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW­DELL (800-999-3355).

NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet

connection, you can find contact information
on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill,
or Dell product catalog.

Dell provides several online and telephone-based
support and service options. Availability varies by
country and product, and some services may not be
available in your area. To contact Dell for sales,
technical support, or customer service issues:

1 Visit support.dell.com, and verify your

country or region in the Choose A Country/
Region drop-down menu at the bottom of the
page.

2 Click Contact Us on the left side of the page,

and select the appropriate service or support
link based on your need.

3 Choose the method of contacting Dell that is

convenient for you.

Getting Help

69

Getting Help

70

Index

Index

B

beep codes, 31

C

connecting

modem, 12
monitor, 11
network, 1 3
power cables, 1 2

contacting Dell, 63, 69

D

Dell

contacting, 63, 69
Factory Image Restore, 56
technical support and customer service, 64
Technical Update Service, 49

Dell Diagnostics, 42

starting from the Drivers and Utilities media, 44
starting from your hard drive, 43

Dell Factory Image Restore, 56

Dell Technology Guide, 61

Desktop System Software, 60

diagnostics

beep codes, 3 1
Dell, 42

71

Index

documentation, 59

Dell Technology Guide, 61
Service Manual, 6 1

drivers, 51

Drivers and Utilities media, 60
identifying, 5 1
reinstalling, 51
returning to a previous version, 5 1

Drivers and Utilities media, 52, 60

Dell Diagnostics, 42

E

End User License Agreement (EULA), 60

ergonomics information, 60

error messages

beep codes, 3 1

Express Service Code, 59

72

F

Factory Image Restore, 56

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard, 17

finding information, 59

I

Internet, 15

setting up, 16

L

license label, 61

M

media

Drivers and Utilities, 60
operating system, 59

Index

memory

troubleshooting, 46

N

networks, 13

connecting, 1 3

O

operating system

Dell Factory Image Restore, 56
media, 57
reinstalling, 5 9
System Restore, 5 4

Operating System media, 59

operating system product key, 61

P

phone numbers, 69

power

power light conditions, 45
troubleshooting, 4 5

problems

restore to previous state, 54

R

regulatory information, 60

reinstalling

drivers and utilities, 51
software, 51

S

S.M.A.R.T, 42

safety information, 60

73

Index

Service Manual, 61

Service Tag, 59

setup

computer, 1 1
installing your computer in an enclosure, 14
Internet, 16
quick setup, 1 1

software

problems, 48
reinstalling, 51
troubleshooting, 48-4 9
updates, 49

specifications

all, 19
audio, 21
connectors, 24
controls and lights, 2 6
drives, 23
environmental, 29
expansion bus, 2 2
memory, 2 0
physical, 28

74

specifications (continued)

power, 28
processor, 1 9
system information, 1 9
video, 21

support, 63

contacting Dell, 6 9
online services, 6 4
regional, 64
technical support and customer service, 64

support information, 60

System Restore, 54

T

Terms and Conditions, 60

transferring information to a new computer, 17

troubleshooting, 31, 61

blue screen, 48
computer not responding, 47
Dell Diagnostics, 42

Index

troubleshooting (continued)

error messages, 34
memory, 46
power, 45
power light conditions, 45
power lights, 31
program crashes, 47
programs and Windows compatibility, 48
restore to previous state, 54
software, 47-49
tips, 45

U

updates

software and hardware, 4 9

W

warranty information, 60

Windows License label, 61

Windows Vista

Dell Factory Image Restore, 56
Device Driver Rollback, 51
Program Compatibility wizard, 4 8
reinstalling, 59
returning to a previous device driver version, 5 1
System Restore, 54

Windows XP

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard, 17
reinstalling, 59
setting up Internet connection, 17
System Restore, 54

wizards

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard, 17
Program Compatibility wizard, 4 8

75

Index

76